Burglary Lawyer Manassas Park — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
A burglary charge in Manassas Park is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of breaking and entering. Our burglary lawyer Manassas Park team, including former prosecutors, has documented results in the Manassas Park General District Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The specific elements are outlined in Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). This is distinct from statutory burglary (entering a building with intent) and breaking and entering, which are covered under separate code sections. A conviction is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Aggravating factors, like possession of a deadly weapon, can increase the severity.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-89. Court information, including forms and procedures, can be found on the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Defending a Burglary Case in Manassas Park
Defending a burglary charge requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence on intent, entry, and identification. In Manassas Park General District Court, felony preliminary hearings are held before a case moves to Circuit Court for trial. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas Park will scrutinize police reports, search warrants, and witness statements for constitutional violations or inconsistencies.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Immediately after arrest, contact a lawyer to review the warrant and police narrative.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the Manassas Park GDC, your attorney can challenge probable cause to potentially get the felony charge reduced or dismissed.
- Evidence Discovery & Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the legality of the arrest.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Based on the evidence, negotiate for a reduced charge (like trespassing) or prepare for a jury trial in Manassas Park Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Manassas Park, burglary is a Class 3 felony with a penalty range of 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Same as above. |
| Breaking and Entering (Va. Code § 18.2-92) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, collateral consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategy. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious felony charges.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients. In one instance, our team, which includes experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, successfully negotiated a reduction from a felony charge to a misdemeanor with no jail time for a client facing serious allegations. We focus on protecting your future and building the strongest possible defense strategy from the start.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Manassas Park
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via Route 28 and I-66. If you need a burglary lawyer near Manassas Park or the surrounding communities, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Manassas Park
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a crime. Breaking and entering (§ 18.2-92) involves entering a building (any time) to commit a misdemeanor. The charges and penalties differ, making an accurate defense by a breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas Park critical.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Through negotiation, a skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas Park may secure a reduction to a lesser felony or a misdemeanor like trespassing. Factors include the evidence strength, the defendant’s record, and the specifics of the alleged entry. This avoids the severe penalties of a Class 3 felony conviction.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Manassas Park?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a burglary lawyer Manassas Park immediately at (888) 437-7747. Your attorney will guide you through the process at the Manassas Park General District Court and protect your rights from the initial hearing onward.
What are the long-term consequences of a burglary conviction?
A felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record, skilled to difficulty finding employment, losing professional licenses, ineligibility for federal benefits, and loss of the right to vote and possess firearms. A strong defense is an investment in your future.
How can a former prosecutor help my burglary case?
A former prosecutor, like firm founder Mr. Sris, understands how the Commonwealth builds its case. This insight allows your burglary lawyer Manassas Park to anticipate strategies, identify evidentiary weaknesses, and negotiate more effectively from a position of knowledge.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on criminal defense in Fairfax and federal criminal defense in Virginia. You can also learn about DUI defense in Manassas Park.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.